KEY POINTS
- Tinubu reaffirms subsidy removal as essential for Nigeria’s economic stability, addressing public discontent during his Enugu visit.
- Enugu Governor Peter Mbah praised for impactful developmental initiatives, including healthcare centers, schools, and AI-powered security projects.
- Tinubu commissions multiple state projects, urging collaboration between the federal and state governments to foster sustainable growth and infrastructure improvement.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s stance on removing the petrol subsidy, emphasizing its necessity for Nigeria’s economic stability despite widespread criticism and economic hardship.
Speaking on Saturday during a visit to Enugu State, Tinubu described the decision as a pivotal step towards securing the nation’s financial future.
Addressing criticism amid hardship
According to PremiumTimes, Tinubu acknowledged the public frustration resulting from the subsidy removal, which was announced during his inaugural address on May 29, 2023.
The policy led to a sharp increase in petrol prices, triggering higher transportation costs and widespread inflation. While conceding the difficulties faced by Nigerians, Tinubu stood firm in his resolve.
“You cannot spend on the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they are born,” he stated. “I know people will fight, grumble, and abuse me, but I asked for the job. I know what it takes.”
Tinubu framed the subsidy removal as essential to redirecting resources toward long-term development, describing Nigeria as a “house” that requires collective effort to rebuild for both immediate and future needs.
Praise for Governor Peter Mbah
During his visit, Tinubu commended Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his developmental achievements, citing efforts to bolster economic growth and improve security. “He is doing a fantastic job,” Tinubu said. “I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development. You are doing well and very focused.”
Tinubu urged residents of Enugu to continue to support Mbah in delivering infrastructure and economic initiatives, calling him a “good symbol of South-Eastern states.”
Commissioned Projects in Enugu
The President’s visit included the commissioning of several projects spearheaded by Governor Mbah. These included:
- 30 completed Smart Green Schools out of 260 under construction across the state’s wards.
- 60 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, part of a larger initiative to complete 260 centers statewide.
- The Enugu International Conference Centre, a multi-auditorium facility designed for large-scale events.
- 90 urban roads in Enugu City aimed at improving connectivity and easing transportation challenges.
- A Command and Control Centre equipped with AI-enabled surveillance technology and 150 patrol vehicles.
Broader implications
Tinubu’s endorsement of the subsidy removal highlights the administration’s focus on fiscal discipline and long-term economic growth.
Despite the immediate economic strain on Nigerians, the president expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rebuild the economy and deliver sustainable development.
The visit to Enugu showcased not only the administration’s commitment to addressing national challenges but also the collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to drive progress across Nigeria.
